[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 80 (Tuesday, June 20, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1214]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF DAVID ``DOOVY'' KIRSCHENBAUM

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 20, 2006

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in joyful remembrance of the life 
and work of David ``Doovy'' Kirschenbaum, an extraordinary man whose 
life was dedicated to family, friends and community. Mr. Kirschenbaum 
exemplified the purest meaning of the word ``father,'' and his caring, 
nurturing, dedication and commitment to others enriched the lives of 
countless individuals.
  Doovy was a successful attorney and a staunch advocate for those who 
could not defend themselves. He built a large law practice with the 
daily assistance of members of his family. As his life touched the 
lives of more and more individuals, his influence widened. His wisdom 
and advice was soon sought after by officials from every rank and 
branch of government. Doovy's reputation became that of a kind, wise 
man, who, with just a twinkling of his eye could provide down-to-earth, 
practical advice. His possessed a philosophic mind, understood deeply 
the human condition, and always communicated great optimism and love. 
His commitment to and participation in Cleveland's Jewish community was 
central to his passion for social and economic justice.
  Doovy pushed himself in all of his endeavors. He was constantly 
building his physical strength. He was an excellent skier and golfer, 
but a gentle competitor, who understood that life, like sports, was 
played not just to win but for the love of the game. His enthusiasm and 
joy for living were contagious. His friendship was consistently sought 
after by others, as his magnetic character easily drew people to him. 
His interest in public service led him to an appointment on the 
Cleveland Port Authority, where he presided over the growth of the 
great ports along the Great Lakes. His business interests also included 
health care, where he took pride in helping many families extend the 
quality of life of their loved ones in superior nursing facilities.
  Doovy's greatest achievement in life was always his family. He was a 
loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who with his beloved 
wife Elise, took great pride in the lives, growth and accomplishments 
of each of their six children. Together, Doovy and Elise built a family 
and a life of love that touched the lives of countless people in 
numerous and permanent ways.
  When Doovy reached his 70th birthday, hundreds of his friends 
traveled to Cleveland from all around America to celebrate his diamond 
year. When they entered the Kirschenbaum home, Doovy presented them 
with a small booklet of his philosophical observations entitled: ``It's 
Still All About Nothing.'' Today, in honoring his memory, we understand 
why his life meant everything to so many people. We know why this wise 
man, this advocate of the people, this gentle loving soul will be 
missed long into the future, not only by those in his large, extended 
family who shared his life, but by everyone whose life he ever touched.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance 
of my dear friend, David ``Doovy'' Kirschenbaum. Please also join me as 
I offer my deepest condolences to his wife Elise; to his daughters, 
Amy, Lynn, and Jo; to his son Dan; to the memory of his daughters, 
Susan and Gail; to his 22 grandchildren; to his 3 great-grandchildren, 
and to his extended family members and many friends. Although he will 
be greatly missed, his life was lived with great joy and love that he 
freely extended to his family, friends and to our community. Doovy's 
limitless kindness, generosity, humor and love consistently framed his 
life and embraced the lives of others, and his spirit live on within 
the hearts of his family and friends, today, and for all time, and he 
will never be forgotten.

                          ____________________